Jeep Cherokee vs Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee, with its new KM model, aimed to evoke nostalgia by adopting a boxy shape reminiscent of the classic XJ Cherokee from the 1980s and 1990s. However, in a market saturated with rugged-looking crossovers, the Cherokee's design came across as somewhat generic. The signature seven-slot grille, a hallmark of Jeep's identity, seemed less distinctive, resembling a knockoff rather than the genuine article. The rear-end design was more successful, blending an XJ-like profile with aerodynamic elements and taillights featuring the unique “X” pattern of jerry cans. The Cherokee's proportions were well-suited for a compact SUV, sharing the Stellantis STLA Large platform with other models like the Dodge Charger and Jeep Wagoneer S.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid offered a variety of designs, but the PHEV was limited to the Rugged trim, Woodland, and three Sport grades, including the exclusive GR Sport. The sixth-generation RAV4 maintained the same footprint as its predecessor, with certain trims adding buffer bumpers for increased length. The RAV4 embraced a square, truck-like presence, consistent with Toyota's new SUV lineup. The Woodland trim accentuated the boxiness, featuring a wide front fascia, solid panels replacing fog lights, and chunky all-terrain tires. The Sport trims added gloss black accents, with the GR Sport showcasing racier elements like red brake calipers and a wide mesh grille. The charge port location varied by trim, adding a unique touch to the RAV4's design.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee introduced a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a two-motor hybrid system, delivering 210 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. This setup positioned the Cherokee between the Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4 hybrids in terms of power. The standard all-wheel-drive system featured a clutch-based rear-axle disconnect, prioritizing fuel economy over off-road capability. Jeep's Selec-Terrain drive modes and best-in-class approach and departure angles enhanced its versatility, though the Cherokee's off-road prowess was limited compared to models like the Grand Cherokee or Wrangler. The hybrid system impressed with its smooth power transitions, but the steering lacked precision, and regenerative braking was minimal.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid boasted an updated 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 324 horsepower, making it the most powerful RAV4 to date. The PHEV featured a larger 22.7-kwh battery pack, extending the electric range to 52 miles. The all-wheel-drive system included a powerful front motor and a smaller rear motor for assistance and traction. The RAV4 PHEV excelled in EV mode for quiet city driving, while Auto mode delivered impressive acceleration with a 0-60 mph time in the low five seconds. The GR Sport trim offered enhanced handling with a lower ride height and performance tires. Despite its weight, the RAV4 PHEV maintained a spirited ride without sacrificing comfort.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee provided ample headroom and legroom for front-seat passengers, comparable to competitors like the Subaru Forester and Kia Sportage hybrids. However, rear-seat legroom fell short compared to rivals such as the CR-V and Tucson hybrids. Cargo space was limited, with 33.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 68.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Cherokee's towing capacity of 3,500 pounds was a standout feature. The dashboard design was uncluttered, but some controls were difficult to locate, and touch sensors for climate controls lacked feedback.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid retained its dimensions from the previous generation, optimizing interior space with clever storage solutions. The base SE offered a power driver’s seat and heated front seats, while higher trims featured synthetic leather upholstery and ventilated seats. The RAV4's interior included multiple storage shelves and deep door pockets. Rear legroom was spacious, though slightly less than larger models like the CR-V. The cargo area offered 33.6 cubic feet, expandable to 63.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. A temporary spare tire was included under the cargo floor.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee came equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, running the Uconnect 5 infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless device charging available on higher trims. The system was stable and upgradable via over-the-air updates, though the digital instrument cluster's graphics were plain. The native navigation system was laggy compared to Android Auto, and the audio system showed little difference between trim levels.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an enhanced 10.5-inch touchscreen system, with a larger 12.9-inch touchscreen on top trims. The touchscreen offered customizable tiles and a quick menu for easy access. Toyota's new operating system, Arene, improved responsiveness and voice assistant capabilities. The RAV4 PHEV included a built-in dash cam for recording and saving clips from exterior cameras, with adjustable sensitivity settings.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee offered standard driver-assistance features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Active Driving Assist and traffic-sign recognition were standard on the Overland model, with a surround-view camera system available as an option. Crash test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of writing.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, featuring enhanced camera and radar detection. The suite included automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure alert, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors, and a safe-exit alert. A surround-view camera system was available on all but the base SE. The RAV4's safety record was historically strong, with the NHTSA rating the 2025 model at five stars.